WINCHESTER Cathedral Christmas Market is set to go ahead this year, but the ice rink will not draw in visitors this year due to social distancing concerns. 

As previously reported, organisers have lodged an application with Winchester City Council to expand the market's footprint. 

Now civic chiefs and business leaders have given their opinion on the changes to this year's event.

Senior councillor and Cabinet member for the local economy and climate emergency Paula Ferguson said that the council is currently responding to the application. 

She added: “We’re working very closely with the cathedral to make sure all the necessary measures are put in place to make the event as Covid-19 secure as possible. Not having the ice rink this year will obviously be a disappointment for many of our younger residents and visitors, but it will lead to a reduction in numbers and that is a prudent step to take.

“Our focus is on facilitating the distanced movement of residents and visitors whilst supporting the recovery of the city's economy. That said, the situation is a developing one and if infection rates rise, then plans may have to be changed.”

Outdoor markets have been permitted to operate since the beginning of June, with outdoor performances given the go-ahead from July 11, the large numbers drawn by Christmas events would make practicing social distancing difficult, which has prompted the Winchester Business Improvement District (BID) to alter its light switch-on plans. 

Dr Paul Spencer, executive director, said: “The festive season will be an important time for Winchester. It will present an opportunity to boost morale at the end of challenging year and our local businesses will benefit from the uplift in trade which we see at Christmastime which will help Winchester’s economic recovery.

“I am delighted to confirm that Winchester BID will be organising the city’s festive lighting scheme and Christmas tree. However, the lights switch on event will be different this year and we will make an announcement about this soon.

“We are pleased that Winchester Cathedral are carefully considering how they can organise the Christmas Market this year. The safety of residents and visitors will be of the utmost importance. If suitable measures are in place and the market is able to go ahead this year then it will be an important part of the festive season and we must not underestimate the economic boost it will bring to the city.”